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Vote For Proposition 4 On November 5th Ballot

A proliferation of ballot initiatives may confuse some New Yorkers at the polls on November 5, but don't overlook Proposition 4, a constitutional amendment that is important for the environment and will not cost taxpayers a nickel.

Here's what Proposition 4 says: "The Constitution would authorize the Legislature to settle longstanding disputes between the State and private entities over ownership of certain parcels of land in the town of Long Lake, Hamilton County. In exchange for giving up its claim to disputed parcels, the State would get land to be incorporated into the forest preserve that would benefit the forest preserve more than the disputed parcels currently do. Shall the proposed amendment be approved?""

Here's what it means and why you should vote yes: The end of nearly two centuries' worth of expensive and often fruitless lawsuits over land ownership claims by various governmental and private parties. The proposed Constitutional amendment would permit the State to settle these so-called "Township 40 claims" and clear local land titles in exchange for funding to purchase land the state has long wanted to add to Adirondack Park.

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is expected to recommend that the Legislature target the historic Marion River Carry for acquisition through this process. This would also include beautifully forested acres along the Marion River, portions of the Utowana Lake shore, and a canoe portage that connects Raquette Lake with Utowana Lake and Blue Mountain Lake. This will open this land for public recreation and forever protect it from development.

The New York League of Conservation Voters endorses this proposal, as do the Open Space Institute, the Adirondack Council, the Adirondack Mountain Club, Adirondack Wild and Protect! the Adirondacks! For more information, go to: http://twp40.com.